Preview: Albany Tech Titans at Chipola Indians

MARIANA, Fla. (Interstat) — The surging Chipola College men’s basketball team will look to extend its winning streak when it hosts struggling Albany Tech on Wednesday night.

The Indians (10-2) have won five consecutive games and return home following an 85-75 road victory over Gordon State on Dec. 11. Chipola has been dominant at home this season, boasting a 6-1 record in Mariana.

Albany Tech (2-5) enters on a two-game skid, including an 89-65 home loss to Santa Fe on Saturday. The Titans have struggled on the road, going 0-2 in away contests.

Chipola is led by forward Hedrens Bartelus, who is coming off a standout performance of 19 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists against Gordon State. Over his last three games, Bartelus is averaging 15.7 points and 7.7 rebounds.

The Titans will rely heavily on guard Tyler Husband, who nearly recorded a triple-double in the loss to Santa Fe, finishing with 21 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists. However, his playing time has been inconsistent; he logged just one minute in a loss to Motlow State on Dec. 12 after his big performance the following night.

Chipola’s balanced attack and stout defense, which has held opponents to an average of 69.2 points during its win streak, will pose a significant challenge for Albany Tech. The Titans have allowed 89.3 points per game in their five losses.

This non-conference matchup is the first meeting between the programs this season. Following this game, Chipola will break for the holidays before traveling to Southern Union State on Dec. 30. Albany Tech does not play again until Jan. 7 when it hosts Andrew College.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST at the Milton H. Johnson Health Center.